Speeding cyclists put on notice as police launch crackdown

Police are getting tough on cycling speed demons and soon riders flouting the rules on Melbourne’s Southbank promenade will cop a hefty fine.

Police are launching a crackdown on speeding cyclists, electric bike and scooter drivers in Southbank.

Launching on Wednesday, Operation River Run will patrol the busy Southbank Promenade for cyclists exceeding the speed limit of 10km per hour.

Melbourne bike patrol and local police will run the operation which will include using handheld speed measuring devices to detect and deter speeding offences.

If a cyclist fails to obey the speed limit they can be charged on summons and prosecuted under the Road Safety Act.

They also risk a fine of $1652.

The crackdown will also focus on ensuring electric bikes and scooters are in line with current regulations in regards to power capabilities.

Operation River Run will patrol the busy Southbank Promenade for cyclists exceeding the speed limit. Picture: Ellen Smith

Pedestrians will get priority over cyclists on Southbank Promenade. Picture: Lawrence Pinder

Southbank Acting Senior Sergeant Brett Sidebottom said pedestrians were among our “most vulnerable” road users.

“If involved in a collision there is very little that protects them from impact,” Sgt Sidebottom said.

“It is incredibly dangerous for all path users to have riders zooming past pedestrians at a great speed, particularly when we have more people coming back into the city.

“We know more people are choosing options such as electric bikes and scooters to get around the city, and we want to make sure their devices are up to standard and in line with current regulations.

“We encourage all users of roads and shared footpaths to have patience and make sure you look out for each other to ensure everyone is using the space safely.”

Operation River Run commences on Wednesday and will run for three weeks.

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